Paraguay midfielder Miguel Almiron became the first player to be issued a red card at the World Cup due to a new rule. The incident occurred during a Group D match against Turkey, late in the first half.

During first-half stoppage time, Almiron and Turkish player Mert Mulder exchanged words following a foul near midfield. Almiron was seen covering his mouth while addressing Mulder. Mulder appealed to referee Ivan Barton, who reviewed the situation via video and decided to eject Almiron with a red card.

This decision is based on a new rule implemented for this year’s World Cup. Almiron’s covering of his mouth led directly to the red card, as confirmed by coach Gustavo Alfaro. “According to the law, if you cover your mouth you’re sent off. Red card,” Alfaro stated. Despite playing a man down, Paraguay held onto their 1-0 lead and emerged victorious.

Alfaro tried to console Almiron post-game, highlighting the team’s “fighting spirit” in his absence. Almiron expressed regret for his actions, acknowledging the challenging position he left his teammates in.

FIFA president Gianni Infantino introduced the new rule following an incident involving Benfica’s Gianluca Prestianni in a Champions League game. Alfaro pointed out that the team was aware of the rule, although he questioned its severity, stating, “I fear we are too strict and football loses its essence. In football, there’s friction, fights, clashes.”

Almiron’s red card means he will miss Paraguay’s final group stage match against Australia. FIFA may also extend his suspension, potentially affecting his participation in a knockout round match. “I hope the penalty is he misses as few matches as possible,” Alfaro said, noting Almiron’s deep remorse.

This is the second instance of Almiron being penalized under a new World Cup rule. A yellow card was previously issued to him in the opening match against the United States, following a video review that overturned a yellow card initially given to Tim Ream for diving.